Parents have been left confused and concerned following the sudden and unannounced closure of Clapham Pre-School, which was communicated via the Blossoms app yesterday (3 July).
The message, seen by the Bedford Independent, informed parents that the setting was closing with immediate effect, and assured them that all invoices would be cancelled and any payments already made would be refunded.
The brief statement added: “I am sorry I cannot say any more yet, myself and Rachel will be there tomorrow [Friday] to get more information and hopefully we can let you know. I know it is immensely inconvenient and not a decision we wanted. Please bear with us at this time.”
The announcement has left many families without childcare at short notice, with no clear explanation given for the closure.
Clapham Pre-School’s website says they are a “charitable organisation, managed by a committee of enthusiastic parent volunteers and have the advantage of our own purpose-built facility, located in the centre of Clapham village, next to the villagehall”.
A spokesperson for Bedford Borough Council said they were aware of the closure of Clapham Pre-School and are in communication with the Pre-School’s leadership.
They added, “Parents and carers can also contact the Bedford Borough Family Information Service (FIS), which offers free impartial advice about childcare and other services that support families and carers of children and young people.”
To get in touch with them, call 0800 023 2057, email fis@bedford.gov.uk or visit bedford.gov.uk.
We have contacted Clapham Pre-School for comment.
